Chinese exports rise 7 percent, imports slip

BEIJING (AP) — China says its export growth accelerated in May but imports dipped in a mixed sign for the world's second-biggest economy.

Data released by the General Administration of Customs on Sunday showed exports rose 7 percent in dollar terms, up from a 0.9 percent increase in April and rather large slump in February and March.

Imports declined 1.6 percent in May after inching up 0.8 percent in April.

Private sector analysts say the Chinese economy will likely slow down as the impact of mini-stimulus efforts fade. Economic growth eased to 7.4 percent in the first quarter from the previous quarter's 7.5 percent.

Communist leaders are trying to reduce reliance on trade and investment by encouraging domestic consumption. But their plans are based on a forecast of 7.5 percent growth in total trade, while exports have shrunk 0.4 percent for the first five months of the year and imports are up 0.8 percent.

Exports for the month of May came to $195.47 billion while imports totaled $159.55 billion, giving China a trade surplus of $35.9 billion.

The surplus with the United States was $21.2 billion while that with the 27-nation European Union was $9.3 billion.

ODESSA, Texas (AP) — A West Texas man has been charged with impersonating an officer by using sirens and flashing lights to skip to the head of the drive-thru line at a fast-food restaurant. Full Story

Sufjan Stevens, "Carrie & Lowell" (Asthmatic Kitty) Plucked strings and pulsing keyboards dominate the distinctive arrangements on Sufjan Stevens' latest album, and in the absence of a rhythm section, they serve to keep time. Full Story